Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Coaching

Centerville, Texas

They came on the court fully prepared for action.

You could see it in their eyes.

And on their shins....special designs and colors.
Oh, and their feet...shiney "new" sneakers...with plenty of squeak in them.

This was to be a practice session...but they were ready, fully ready.

Jackie's brother Doug is their coach.

The team is made up of very young girls...many of them having a first experience at basketball....pony tails waving as they ran.

When they tried to score, most of their body had to be behind the shot for it to make it.

When it came to a simple play, whether they "cut" left or right was up for grabs for a long time - in spite of the fact that Coach had said "right."

And when they ran, most of them kind of bounced...like even this is a bit of a new skill for them.

Today they had all snuck into a gymn for one more practice with coach.

And he was ready - with a defensive strategy to teach them, and one simple play to run over and over until they all went "right."

And until they all got it, Doug was insistent. He was ready. He was patient...never a lifted voice - though I know him well enough to know he has one to lift. :) Over and over he would instruct - sometimes with his big hand resting on a head or shoulder.

And before it was all over a moment of fun with a very original cheer....a growl. (They are the Tigers)

What caught me deeply was the human dynamics taking place on the court....the affirmation and sense of self-worth that was being cast upon these girls. The pride in their eyes when they did well...the furtive gances towards coach for his approval. A girl who showed up for the first time, fit right in and was affirmed by coach and others. It felt at times that they were building lives as much as plays.

Coaching...it can unearth great human treasure.

Got a coach?

And who are you coaching?

Selah

Dave

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